The San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) Board of Education convened for its final regular meeting of the year on December 14, 2021. The meeting began with procedural announcements regarding public comment protocols, including the availability of American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and language translation services in Spanish and Cantonese.
Following the roll call, which confirmed the presence of all board members, the meeting proceeded with a land acknowledgment. The board recognized that they are on the unceded ancestral homeland of the Ramaytush Ohlone, honoring their role as the original inhabitants of the San Francisco Peninsula. This acknowledgment emphasized the board's respect for the Indigenous community and their ongoing connection to the land.
The board then moved to approve the minutes from previous meetings, including those held on November 9, October 26, and several others throughout the year. A motion was made and seconded, followed by a roll call vote that resulted in unanimous approval.
Superintendent Dr. Matthews delivered a report, addressing concerns regarding the emergence of the new COVID variant, Omicron. He acknowledged the heightened anxiety within the community and assured attendees that the district is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff.
The meeting concluded with a reflection on the year’s accomplishments and challenges, setting the stage for future discussions and planning as the board prepares for the upcoming year. The board's commitment to transparency and community engagement was evident throughout the proceedings, highlighting their dedication to serving the educational needs of San Francisco's diverse population.